Bradford Industrial Museum

Heritage Craft Workshop: Ukrainian Pysanky Eggs

Pysanky is a unique technique of multi-layered dyeing using wax, similar to batik, but created on the three-dimensional surface of an egg.

About this event

Bradford Industrial Museum, Heritage Craft Room

Pysanky is a unique technique of multi-layered dyeing using wax, similar to batik, but created on the three-dimensional surface of an egg. This tradition is over a thousand years old and dates back to pre-Christian times as a celebration of spring. Today, in Ukrainian culture, these eggs can be painted all year round and filled with personal meaning — from a meditative artistic process to the creation of a protective talisman. This craft requires presence in the ‘here and now,’ making it an ideal way to disconnect from digital noise and slow down by creating something with your own hands.
During the workshop, participants will:

  • Discover the ancient tools: We will start by introducing the “pysachok” (a traditional stylus). You will learn how to heat it over a candle flame and fill it with natural beeswax to draw fine, delicate lines.
  • Master the wax-resist technique: Through a step-by-step process, you will “write” patterns on a real eggshell. Each layer of wax preserves the colour underneath, allowing you to build up a vibrant, multi-coloured design.
  • Experience the “big reveal”: The most magical part is at the end. You will gently melt the wax away near a candle flame, wiping it off to reveal the brilliant, intricate masterpiece you’ve created.
  • Unwind and connect: Beyond the craft, this session is a form of “egg-meditation.” It is a wonderful way to slow down, focus on the present moment, and take home a unique piece of art that can last for years.

There will be 2 sessions run through the day, 11am  – 1pm, and 2pm – 4pm. When booking please select Morning or Afternoon session.

Upcoming events

4 April 2026 11:00 am – 4 April 2026 1:00 pm

4 April 2026 2:00 pm – 4 April 2026 4:00 pm

Bradford Industrial Museum

Address
Moorside Mills, Moorside Road Eccleshill, Bradford, BD2 3HP

Monday: Closed
Tuesday – Friday: 10am – 4pm
Saturday – Sunday: 11am – 4pm

All Bank Holiday Opening Times: 11:00 – 4:00 except Bolling Hall.

All sites closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Good Friday

By car

Signposted from Bradford Ring Road and Harrogate Road (A658). Bus 645 from Market Street or Hall Ings. All buses stop at Moorside Road. On the museum site there is free car parking and disabled car parking.

By public transport

From Bradford City Centre, the 660 bus departs from Drake Street stop D1, (alight at Moorside Road), and the 645 departs from Hall Ings stop H11, (alight at Harrogate Road then an approx 10 min walk).

For help in planning your journey by public transport, please visit www.wymetro.com

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